IIT Ropar researcher develops UVGI technology based currency, card disinfection device

This currency, card and document disinfection device provides 99.9 per cent elimination of harmful microbes, thus containing the spread of deadly pathogens.

A researcher at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar has developed a UVGI technology-based currency, card and document disinfection’ device. The portable disinfection unit can be used to sanitise both sides of any banknote, plastic currency, receipts and leaf documents of A4 and letter size. The multiple hand exchange of currency notes, receipts, and other documents increases a high risk to users through the surface transmission of viruses and bacteria. Conventional methods of disinfection, such as chemical disinfection or washing are not suitable for these materials. This currency, card and document disinfection device provides 99.9 per cent elimination of harmful microbes, thus containing the spread of deadly pathogens.

“This portable disinfection device can be used in public and private offices, banks, petrol pumps, shops and commercial establishments where cash/card transactions and document circulation are done on the daily basis,” the researchers said.

The design team has introduced the essential features in the device to optimize its effectiveness with the help of calculations and tests done at the IIT Ropar, which ensures highest safety of the user from UVGI.

The Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI) can inactivate all types of bacteria and viruses that have been tested so far including coronavirus. The UVGI light operates within the UV-C spectrum, which is an effective wavelength spectrum for germicidal action.

This disinfectant device has been designed and prototyped by Dr. Khushboo Rakha, Assistant Professor, Department of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, IIT Ropar in collaboration with Humanity Works, Mumbai. The design has been applied for the patent.

“This simple device is the need of the hour to help the organisations like banks, post offices, government and private offices work safely during this pandemic as this machine (UVGI disinfectant) uses short-wavelength ultraviolet light to kill or inactivate microorganisms by destroying nucleic acids and disrupting their DNA, leaving them unable to reproduce and infect. IIT Ropar is dedicated to working for the welfare of the society and the nation at large in this time of crisis,” Dr. Rakha said.

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